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Ready or not...fall in Tennessee means Asian lady beetles are on the move. Unlike ladybugs, these pests are a much greater nuisance. Every autumn, they gather in large groups outside homes before squeezing indoors to overwinter.
At All-American Pest Control, we’ve helped Tennessee homeowners deal with Asian lady beetle infestations for decades. Here’s what you need to know about their habits, risks, and the best ways to keep them out of your home.
What Are Asian Lady Beetles?
Asian lady beetles look a lot like ladybugs, but there are key differences. These beetles have oval, dome-shaped bodies, reddish-orange coloring, and dark spots. The most telling feature is the black “M”-shaped marking on their heads.
Although not native to Tennessee, they were introduced to the U.S. as predators of aphids. While beneficial outdoors, their tendency to invade homes in fall has made them a common nuisance pest.
When and Why They Invade Tennessee Homes
Asian lady beetles usually become a problem around the third week of October, which is why they are often referred to as Halloween beetles. During summer, they stay outdoors where food is plentiful. But as temperatures drop, they seek warmth and shelter.
They gather on sunlit, south-facing walls before slipping inside through cracks and gaps. Once indoors, they may linger in corners before moving into wall voids and attic spaces to overwinter.
Lifespan and Seasonal Behavior
Asian lady beetles’ lifespan can range from a few months to a few years, depending on their surrounding conditions. They breed in spring and summer, and may have several generations in a season.
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Spring & Summer: Breed outdoors and may produce several generations.
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Fall: Move indoors seeking warmth.
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Winter: Overwinter inside walls or attics, though they may appear on warm, sunny days.
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Spring: Emerge from hiding spots and return outside.
Are Asian Lady Beetles Dangerous?
While not “dangerous” per se, they can cause issues inside your home:
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Allergic reactions: Some people experience mild skin irritation.
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Bites: They can bite, though it’s usually harmless.
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Damage: They release a yellow fluid that stains walls, furniture, and fabrics, and gives off a foul odor.
Where They Hide and How They Enter
Because of their small size, Asian lady beetles can slip inside through even tiny gaps, such as:
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Cracks in siding or foundations
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Gaps around windows and doors
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Torn window screens
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Open vents or roofline gaps
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Utility and pipe entry points
Once inside, they settle in wall voids, attics, and other out-of-reach spaces, making infestations hard to remove without professional help.
What Attracts Asian Lady Beetles?
Asian lady beetles are drawn to:
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South facing, warm, sunlit walls
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Light-colored or reflective surfaces
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Homes with a history of infestations (chemical cues left behind attract new beetles)
Best Ways to Prevent Infestations
The best way to deal with Asian lady beetles is to stop them before they get in. Start sealing entry points by late September for the best protection.
Prevention Tips:
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Seal cracks and crevices with caulk
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Install door sweeps and weatherstripping
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Pack larger gaps with steel wool
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Screen vents and chimneys
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Seal around pipes, utility entry points, and outdoor faucets
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Wash exterior walls to remove chemical attractants
What to Do If They’re Already Inside
If beetles are already indoors, don’t panic:
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Vacuum them up—avoid using your hands to prevent stains.
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Place sticky traps near entry points.
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Seal gaps to block new beetles from entering.
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Avoid DIY sprays—they’re often ineffective and unsafe indoors.
For effective elimination, contact a licensed pest control professional who can safely treat hidden infestations.
Final Thoughts for Tennessee Homeowners
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Expect seasonal activity every fall and spring.
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Homes with past infestations are more likely to see future ones.
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Professional help is recommended if sealing isn’t practical or if you’ve had large invasions before.
Asian lady beetles may be helpful in gardens, but they don’t belong inside your home. The most reliable solution is prevention and professional pest control.
Call All-American Pest Control for Lady Beetle Protection
With All-American Pest Control’s Perimeter Plus Plan, you’ll get year-round protection from Asian lady beetles and other seasonal pests. We also offer our Green Choice eco-friendly option and our Complete Care Package for homeowners who want outdoor pest protection as well.
Contact us today for a free home evaluation and let’s keep your Tennessee home beetle-free this fall and beyond.
Comprehensive Pest Control Solutions in Nashville, TN & Nearby Areas
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: Franklin, Nolensville, Spring Hill, College Grove, Grassland, Cool Springs, Fieldstone Farms, Sullivan Farms, Forrest Crossing, Bent Creek, Bridgemore Village, Kings’ Chapel, Downtown Franklin, The Highlands at Ladd Park, Berry Farms, Polk Place, Rebel Meadows, River Landing, Rogershire, Shadow Green, Simmons Ridge, Southall Heights, Fernvale, Fountain Heights, Ehtridge, Lawrenceburg, Thompson Station, Santa Fe, and the entire Williamson County and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or schedule a free home evaluation online!